This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken combines the bold flavors of Indian spices with the ease of crockpot cooking. Each tender bite of chicken is coated in a creamy, rich sauce, enhanced by hidden cauliflower for extra nutrition. With just a few minutes of prep, you can create a dish that’s as wholesome as it is flavorful. Serve it with naan or rice for a complete meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 medium breasts)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 small cauliflower, cut into florets (about 4 ½ cups)
- 1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- ½ cup half-and-half (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt for dairy-free)
Directions:
- Heat coconut oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, then add ginger, garlic, curry powder, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Transfer the onion mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Place chicken on top, followed by the cauliflower. Pour tomato paste and tomato sauce over the ingredients. Stir slightly to coat the cauliflower and chicken with sauce.
- Scatter small pieces of butter on top. Cover and cook on high for 1½-2½ hours or on low for 4-6 hours until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Remove the chicken, let it cool slightly, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the slow cooker. Stir in half-and-half and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Then, add the yogurt, stirring well to combine.
- Serve warm over brown rice, quinoa, or naan bread, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 346 kcal | Servings: 6
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken, or “Murgh Makhani,” is one of India’s most beloved culinary treasures. Originating from the vibrant kitchens of Delhi in the 1940s, this dish quickly gained global recognition for its rich, creamy flavors and a perfect balance of spices. Traditionally prepared with tandoori chicken simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with butter and cream, Butter Chicken has become synonymous with indulgent dining. With this Slow Cooker Butter Chicken recipe, you can recreate the magic of this iconic dish with a healthier twist, minimal effort, and maximum flavor—all from the comfort of your home.
Why Slow Cooker Butter Chicken Stands Out
This Slow Cooker Butter Chicken recipe is a modern twist on the classic, designed to meet the demands of busy schedules without compromising on authenticity or taste. Using everyday ingredients like garam masala, curry powder, tomato sauce, and Greek yogurt, this recipe is as accessible as it is delicious. What sets it apart is the use of a slow cooker, which infuses the chicken with layers of flavor while maintaining its juicy texture.
Moreover, this recipe sneaks in cauliflower, adding a healthy dose of vegetables without altering the creamy and satisfying taste. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a versatile crowd-pleaser that delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal hands-on time.
Key Ingredients That Make a Difference
- Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts serve as the protein base, absorbing the bold spices and creamy sauce. Chicken thighs can also be used for a richer, juicier texture, but this recipe’s lightened-up approach keeps the dish lean without sacrificing taste. - Spice Blend
The blend of garam masala, curry powder, and chili powder provides the dish’s characteristic depth of flavor. Garam masala, a traditional Indian spice mix, adds warmth, while curry powder brings complexity. Together, they create the irresistible aroma that makes Butter Chicken so memorable. - Cauliflower
Including cauliflower in this recipe is a game-changer. It blends seamlessly with the sauce, adding volume, fiber, and nutrients while making the dish feel indulgent. It’s a clever way to incorporate vegetables, especially for picky eaters. - Tomato Sauce and Paste
These ingredients form the base of the sauce, providing the tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the butter and cream. Using tomato paste ensures a concentrated flavor, while the tomato sauce keeps the dish saucy and smooth. - Greek Yogurt and Half-and-Half
Replacing heavy cream with Greek yogurt and a small amount of half-and-half makes this version healthier while maintaining the creamy texture. Greek yogurt also adds a subtle tang that enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Health Benefits of Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
1. Nutrient-Dense and Balanced:
This recipe is packed with high-quality protein from chicken, fiber from cauliflower, and antioxidants from tomatoes and spices. Garam masala contains potent compounds like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, known for their anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting properties.
2. Lower in Calories:
By substituting heavy cream with Greek yogurt and reducing the butter content, this recipe delivers the same creamy satisfaction as the traditional dish but with fewer calories and less saturated fat.
3. Great for Meal Prep:
The dish holds up well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it ideal for batch cooking. Simply reheat and pair it with rice or naan for an effortless meal.
4. Customizable:
This recipe can easily be adapted to various dietary preferences. For example, swap the chicken for chickpeas and add more cauliflower for a vegan version. Using coconut milk instead of half-and-half makes it dairy-free, while serving it over cauliflower rice makes it keto-friendly.
5. Easy Digestion:
The use of yogurt and slow-cooked chicken makes this dish gentle on the stomach, while the inclusion of spices like turmeric (in curry powder) supports gut health.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Your Website
1. Authentic Yet Simple:
This recipe bridges the gap between authentic Indian cooking and modern convenience. The use of a slow cooker allows anyone, regardless of culinary skill, to achieve the complex flavors of Butter Chicken with ease.
2. Family-Friendly:
The mild spice level and creamy sauce make it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to introduce Indian flavors to those who may be new to the cuisine.
3. Versatility in Serving:
Whether paired with steamed basmati rice, quinoa, or warm naan, this dish adapts beautifully to different preferences. It’s also an excellent option for entertaining, as the slow cooker keeps the dish warm until serving.
4. Time-Saving:
With only 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy individuals. Simply set it in the slow cooker, go about your day, and return to a ready-to-eat masterpiece.
5. A Healthy Alternative:
Many Indian recipes are heavy on cream and butter. This lightened-up version retains all the indulgent flavors while aligning with health-conscious goals.
Tips for Making the Best Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
- Don’t Skip Sautéing:
Sautéing the onions, ginger, garlic, and spices before adding them to the slow cooker unlocks their full flavor potential. This step is worth the extra few minutes. - Use Fresh Spices:
Ensure your spices are fresh for the most vibrant flavor. Ground spices lose potency over time, so replace them if they’ve been sitting in your pantry for years. - Avoid Overcooking the Chicken:
Check the chicken’s internal temperature to avoid drying it out. Once it reaches 165°F, remove it promptly. - Cool Before Adding Yogurt:
Allow the sauce to cool slightly before stirring in the yogurt to prevent curdling. This step ensures a smooth, creamy texture. - Customize to Taste:
Feel free to adjust the spice levels or experiment with different vegetables. Green peas, carrots, or even sweet potatoes would work well in this dish.
Pairing Ideas
Butter Chicken is best enjoyed with a side that complements its rich, creamy flavors:
- Steamed Basmati Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- Naan Bread: Perfect for scooping and enjoying every last bit of the sauce.
- Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish that balances the warmth of the spices.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a colorful and nutritious addition to the meal.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken offers everything you could want in a meal—comfort, flavor, and convenience. Its creamy, spiced sauce and tender chicken make it an irresistible dish for both Indian food enthusiasts and newcomers. By making a few clever substitutions, this recipe remains indulgent while being healthier and more accessible than traditional versions. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe promises to deliver a restaurant-quality experience right at home. Add it to your rotation, and watch it become a family favorite in no time!
